Easter weekend insurance tips: Protecting homes, valuables, and journeys

The fast-approaching Easter weekend is a time when many families pack their bags, lock up their homes, and set off for popular holiday destinations such as Plettenberg Bay or Ballito. However, while holidaymakers unwind, opportunistic criminals see an opening. Few things can disrupt a holiday more than discovering that a home has been broken into or that valuable luggage has gone missing in transit.

Securing homes before departure

Before embarking on a trip, it is essential to ensure that the home is secured. Alarm systems should be tested and activated, and, if possible, a trusted friend or security company should monitor the property. Opportunistic criminals often target homes that appear vacant, so measures such as setting automated lights on timers and pausing newspaper deliveries can be effective deterrents.

Protecting valuables during travel

High-value luggage brands, some costing hundreds of thousands of rands, are particularly attractive to criminals. To minimise risk, travellers should consider:

• Placing a fragile sticker on bags, which often results in gentler handling,
• Using a protective slipcover,
• Taking a clear photograph of luggage before check-in,
• Keeping valuable items in carry-on luggage rather than checked baggage.

If luggage is damaged in transit, repairs can be complex and time-consuming, particularly for luxury or bespoke suitcases that may require overseas servicing. Investing in a smart luggage tag with GPS tracking can assist in quickly locating missing bags.

Vehicle and equipment security in holiday towns

Many of South Africa’s coastal holiday towns, whether along the Whale Coast, West Coast, Garden Route, or KwaZulu-Natal, experience a significant influx of visitors over Easter. Crowded beaches, busy parking areas, and high volumes of vehicles contribute to an increased risk of fender benders, parking lot dents, and petty theft.

Drivers of luxury vehicles, SUVs, or those towing trailers and boats should be particularly mindful of parking challenges. Parking further away from high-traffic areas can reduce the risk of scratches and minor accidents. For visible sports equipment such as bicycles, surfboards, or kayaks, securing them properly with locking devices is crucial. Insurers may reject claims for stolen equipment if it was not adequately secured.

Saving the insurer’s emergency assistance number before departure can provide immediate access to professional help in the event of an incident.

Road safety: Reducing risks during the holiday period

Easter is one of the busiest travel periods on South Africa’s roads and, unfortunately, also one of the most hazardous. Extended road trips, driver fatigue, reckless driving, and unpredictable weather conditions significantly increase accident risks. To enhance road safety:

• Plan journeys carefully: Rest stops should be scheduled every two hours to prevent fatigue.
• Conduct vehicle checks: Tyres, brakes, and lights should be inspected before departure.
• Adhere to speed limits: Heavy traffic and unfamiliar roads necessitate cautious driving.
• Be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists: Holiday towns experience an increase in foot and bicycle traffic, particularly in coastal areas.
• Practice defensive driving: Anticipating and avoiding reckless behaviour by other road users can prevent accidents.

By implementing these precautions, holidaymakers can reduce risks and ensure a safer, more enjoyable Easter break.

*Tarina Vlok is Managing Director, Elite Risk Acceptances.